The early morning ascension of hot air balloons is a breathtaking experience. The 5:45AM launch time may seem daunting, but to sweeten the pot, Hayden's Lake Front Grill is preparing you an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast. Enjoy mouth watering pancakes either plain or smothered in butter and syrup while you enjoy the early morning hot air balloon launches on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

If you're not an early riser you won't get to see the launches, but you'll get to see the glow. Friday and Saturday nights starting at dusk there will be a number of balloons inflated and lit up on the field for festival goers to see. Mesmerizing! Click to BUY TICKETS!

There will be no hot air balloon rides at the event, but I think that reserving one for a future date would be a remarkable gift and experience to share with loved ones. Captain Jim Smith, Commercial Pilot and Director of Balloon Operations for the Balloon Festival in Tigard since 2005, owns a company called Pacific Peaks Balloon which is available for hire daily, April through October. Fly over Oregon's beautiful wine country, the Willamette Valley, and have an experience you will never forget. There are number of flight packages available or talk to Pacific Peaks about planning the perfect flight for your personal adventure. Pacific Peaks Balloon uses FAA licensed Pilots and FAA required maintained and insured equipment. Call Pacific Peaks at (503) 590-5250 to plan your balloon flight. Start a family tradition!